Water Resistance Ratings for Gadgets Explained

Understanding Water Resistance in Your Devices

Many modern devices, including smartwatches, fitness trackers, and smartphones, are marketed as being waterproof or water resistant. However, despite these claims, a dip in the swimming pool could still prove fatal to your technology.

The market for devices with water protection is often clouded by ambiguous labeling and ratings. This leads to significant consumer confusion regarding the actual level of protection offered.

If you need clarification on your device’s water-resistance rating, or are dealing with a device that has suffered water damage, this guide is designed to help.

The Truth About "Waterproof"

A crucial point to understand is that truly waterproof devices are rare. In fact, no device is entirely impervious to water under all conditions.

What is commonly referred to as "waterproof" is more accurately described as water resistance. This resistance varies greatly between devices.

Decoding Water Resistance Ratings

The industry utilizes various ratings to indicate the degree of water resistance. These ratings, however, can be applied inconsistently.

It’s important to remember that water-resistance should be considered a safeguard against accidental splashes or brief immersion, rather than a license for underwater adventures.

Consider any claims of water resistance as protection against unexpected rain, not as an invitation for activities like diving.

Key Takeaway

• Waterproof is a Misnomer: No device is truly waterproof.
• Water Resistance Varies: The level of protection differs significantly.
• Exercise Caution: Treat water resistance as insurance against accidental exposure.

Ultimately, exercising caution and avoiding unnecessary risks is the best approach when it comes to protecting your valuable electronics from water damage.

The Growing Prevalence of Water Resistant Technology

Traditionally, water resistance was primarily a concern for manufacturers of specialized equipment and gear for extreme sports. Beyond timepieces designed for scuba diving or triathlons, robust protection against water wasn't widely sought; many consumers were satisfied if their Timex continued functioning after exposure to rain. The demand for water-resistant computers and similar devices was even more limited, as few individuals required a laptop capable of withstanding submersion or accidental drops.

However, the widespread adoption of smartphones and wearable technology has fundamentally altered the landscape of the water resistance market. Individuals are now carrying valuable devices into environments where water exposure presents a significant risk. No one desires to damage their new smartwatch at the beach, and a fitness tracker intended for continuous wear necessitates the ability to withstand daily showers.

Consumers often encounter varying degrees of transparency in the terminology and advertising employed by companies, ranging from honest marketing with slight embellishment to ambiguous claims and even outright deception. Thankfully, established international standards, both formal and informal, exist for evaluating water resistance. An informed consumer can therefore navigate marketing materials, review specifications, and accurately assess a device’s performance under different conditions.

Mobile devices, including phones and cameras, are commonly classified using an Ingress Protection (IP) rating, while smartwatches and fitness trackers typically utilize an Atmospheres (ATM) rating. A thorough understanding of these rating systems is crucial for selecting appropriate devices and ensuring the continued functionality of existing ones.

Before delving into the specifics of "water resistance," it’s vital to emphasize a critical point regarding these gadgets. Water resistance is not equivalent to waterproofing.

Indeed, within the realm of consumer electronics, the concept of a truly waterproof device is nonexistent. Every product, regardless of its engineering, possesses a point of vulnerability. Each smartphone, smartwatch, wearable, and even cameras marketed as "waterproof" will eventually fail if subjected to a combination of water temperature, depth, exposure duration, or physical manipulation while submerged, compromising its water-resistant capabilities.

We would assert that not only is complete waterproofing unattainable, but even many instances of "water resistance" are inadequate – poorly advertised, misunderstood, and unreliable in practical scenarios.

Let's begin by examining ATM ratings, as they are the most prevalent and relevant to wearable devices. We will then explore IP ratings and consider how both systems translate to real-world performance, as well as outlining steps to take in the event of device malfunction.

Understanding ATM Ratings for Water Resistance

Prior to the advent of waterproof cameras and mobile phones designed for aquatic environments, wristwatches were routinely worn during beach activities. The ATM rating serves as a longstanding metric for determining a device’s ability to withstand static atmospheric pressure when submerged. A higher ATM rating indicates greater depth capability, as water pressure increases with depth.

This ATM pressure/water resistance rating is commonly found on traditional mechanical and quartz watches, and is also frequently applied to newer wearable technologies such as the Pebble Smartwatch, the Misfit Shine, and the Fitbit Surge.

One ATM corresponds to the static pressure exerted by 10 meters of water. The following table details typical ATM ratings for consumer watches and wearables. Given the straightforward conversion from ATM to meters (1 ATM equals 10 meters), we’ve included equivalent resistance values in feet for users accustomed to the imperial system.

A brief scientific explanation is necessary to fully interpret the chart. At sea level, atmospheric pressure already equates to 1 ATM. Consequently, a device with a 1 ATM rating provides no actual submersion protection or general water resistance. Even slight immersion immediately subjects the device to increased pressure, potentially allowing water ingress for many models.

Furthermore, these ratings pertain to static pressure. This signifies that the device can endure pressure up to the specified rating while stationary within a testing chamber. However, any dynamic pressure created by the wearer’s movement—such as swimming, diving, or engaging in water sports—increases the water pressure exerted. Therefore, a watch rated for 3 ATM, suitable for rain, may be damaged by a high-pressure water jet. Not all water exposure is equivalent!

ATM Rating Chart

• 1 ATM: No water resistance. Keep the device dry.
• 3 ATM: Approximately 100 feet. Suitable for daily use, protecting against splashes, rain, and hand washing. Avoid swimming.
• 5 ATM: Roughly 165 feet. Appropriate for brief submersion, like light swimming.
• 10 ATM: Around 330 feet. Ideal for prolonged submersion, such as snorkeling.
• 20 ATM: Approximately 660 feet. Suitable for high-impact water sports, surfing, jet skiing, and shallow dives.
• Diver: 660+ feet. Dive watches adhere to ISO 6425 standards and are beyond the scope of this discussion.

It’s important to note that the ATM rating lacks official standardization. There isn't a governing body that conducts and enforces ATM testing. Manufacturers assign ratings from 1 to 20 ATM, and these may not consistently align with industry-wide conventions.

The ATM rating is often misused or misinterpreted. Before discussing real-world applications and consumer caution, it’s beneficial to examine another common rating system.

Understanding the IP Rating System

The Ingress Protection (IP) Rating serves as the internationally recognized standard for classifying the environmental protection levels of enclosures. Unlike vague claims often made in marketing materials, an IP rating represents a precise evaluation based on controlled laboratory tests. If a manufacturer doesn't provide an IP rating, their claims regarding water resistance should be viewed cautiously, and the device’s manual should be consulted for specific details.

Without an official IP rating, determining a device’s actual water resistance becomes difficult. Companies may avoid testing due to potential unfavorable results or the associated costs, instead opting for general “water resistant” descriptions.

IP ratings are presented as IPXY, where X denotes protection against solid object intrusion – ranging from large body parts to fine dust particles – and Y indicates protection against liquid ingress, from mist to complete submersion. Each number within the rating signifies that the device has successfully passed all preceding levels within that category; for instance, an IP68 rated device has met the criteria for all six solid ingress levels and the first eight liquid ingress levels.

Let’s examine each component of the rating individually. While this discussion centers on water resistance, manufacturers also frequently mention the solid ingress rating when discussing protection against dust and sand.

The following table, sourced from Wikipedia, details the IP rating levels for protection against physical intrusion:

In practical terms, levels 0 through 4 are generally not relevant to modern portable electronics. The inherent design of smartphones and wearables typically ensures at least an IP4 rating, as openings are rarely large enough to accommodate fingers or tools. When these ratings are used, it’s usually to specify IP5X or IP6X, indicating resistance or immunity to dust and particulate matter, respectively.

A more comprehensive table exists for liquid ingress protection, also courtesy of Wikipedia.

By referencing these tables, the protection level of a device can be determined. For example, the iPhone 7 carries an IP67 rating, signifying complete dust-tightness and protection against immersion in water up to one meter.

However, the complexity increases when considering the testing parameters. The solid ingress chart is straightforward – objects of a certain size cannot enter. The liquid ingress chart involves factors like exposure duration, water pressure, and depth. Furthermore, manufacturers define the specific operational conditions for testing.

Understanding Water Resistance Ratings for Gadgets

Consider the Sony Xperia ZR3 series phone as a prime illustration of why comprehending the IP rating and carefully reviewing the specification sheet or manual is crucial for safeguarding your gadget’s functionality.

The Xperia ZR is IP rated for both dust and water resistance, and Sony marketed it as “waterproof,” though this claim includes a caveat.

Beyond Marketing Claims

The specific phone used as an example is less important than the broader principle. New devices with IP ratings and similar advertising campaigns will inevitably emerge, often depicting devices being submerged in water.

It’s important to remember that truly “waterproof” devices do not exist. Devices are tested under controlled conditions, but in reality, all are water resistant, offering protection within specific parameters of exposure length, temperature, and depth as defined by their IP rating and the manufacturer.

An IPX8 rating signifies water resistance during continuous immersion, but only under conditions specified by the manufacturer.

Specifics of the Xperia ZR3

The operational expectations and conditions for the Xperia ZR3 are clearly outlined in its manual. The phone’s water resistance is valid only if all port covers are securely closed during moisture exposure.

Furthermore, it applies only to fresh or chlorinated water, excluding saltwater or chemical liquids, and for durations of 30 minutes or less at a depth of 1.5 meters or less. Any deviation from these conditions voids the liquid ingress protection.

The Xperia’s marketing was straightforward, emphasizing its suitability for pool use. However, with many other “water resistant” gadgets, the situation is often more complex.

The Case of the Fitbit Surge

The Fitbit Surge fitness tracker is labeled as a 5 ATM device. Traditionally, this suggests suitability for showering and shallow-water swimming.

However, Fitbit’s documentation and website fine print explicitly state that, despite being tested to 5 ATM, the device should not be worn while showering or swimming. Their help files reinforce this limitation.

This discrepancy between consumer understanding and manufacturer specifications can lead to device damage if the fine print is not carefully read.

General Guidelines for Maintaining Water Resistance

Beyond reading the device documentation, several general rules can help preserve water resistance. Avoid operating buttons, ports, or dials while the device is exposed to water, unless the manufacturer specifically permits it.

Avoid rapid temperature changes; transitioning from a hot tub to ice-cold water can compromise seals and cause leaks. Assume any “waterproof” claim is limited to depths of less than 1 meter unless otherwise stated.

A “waterproof” fitness tracker may function during standard swimming strokes but could fail under more extreme conditions, like diving. Treat any claim of “water resistance” as insurance against accidental splashes rather than an invitation for full submersion.

Prioritize Documentation Over Advertising

Ignore advertising copy and imagery. If purchasing a fitness tracker for swimming, consult the company website and manual before buying.

Specifically, search for “water resistant” within the documentation to locate the crucial fine print detailing the specific use parameters.

Addressing Device Failure

When a device malfunctions due to user negligence – such as exceeding the specified water resistance limits outlined in the product manual – resolution can be challenging. However, two factors often work in the consumer’s favor when addressing damage to a device marketed as water resistant.

Firstly, many companies prioritize customer satisfaction and strive to maintain positive relationships. Recently, a replacement Fitbit Charge was swiftly provided after accidental submersion, despite the device only being splash resistant, as clarified by the manufacturer.

Secondly, manufacturers recognize the potential for consumer confusion surrounding waterproof and water resistant terminology. It’s often more cost-effective to replace accidentally damaged units than to risk negative publicity and potential legal action stemming from advertising disputes.

Therefore, if a fitness tracker or similar device is damaged by water exposure, contacting the manufacturer to request a replacement should be the initial course of action. Subsequently, thoroughly reviewing the documentation accompanying the replacement is crucial to prevent recurrence.

A comprehensive grasp of IP ratings, coupled with diligent review of the product manual – both prior to purchase and after – is the most effective strategy for ensuring device longevity and survival through various conditions.

Image Credits: Tim Geers, Robert Couse-Baker, Sony.